Jerk Chicken Kebabs

Jerk Chicken Kebabs
Jerk Chicken Kebabs
From Boston Globe Reader Recipes Contest, Josh Herzog created a first-place recipe for Jerk Chicken Kebabs by combining his favorite foods. He enjoys spicy food, particularly Island and Mexican styles. A counselor at North Andover High School, he also coaches boys' track and girls' diving. He resides in Brighton and grills whenever the weather permits.
  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Served Person: 4
contains white meat tree nut free nut free contains gluten red meat free shellfish free dairy free
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon ground allspice
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
  • 3/4 cup white vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
  • 1 recipe jerk marinade(below)
  • 1 1/2 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 red bell pepper cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
  • 1/2 yellow bell pepper cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
  • 1/4 red onion cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 white onion cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 mangoes cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 ripe plantains cut into 1-inch segments
  • marinade ingredients below:
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground sage
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar or molasses
  • juice of onef lime
  • 1 habanero pepper seeded if desired to reduce heat
  • 3 scallions roughly chopped
  • 2 medium white onions (1 cup) roughly chopped
  • Carbohydrate 83.8278474979959 g
  • Cholesterol 0 mg
  • Fat 5.26487053495365 g
  • Fiber 11.1177374104512 g
  • Protein 10.3146822301366 g
  • Saturated Fat 0.975862645106473 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 Serving (681g)
  • Sodium 34.1084615868004 mg
  • Sugar 72.7101100875448 g
  • Trans Fat 0.763552279777472 g
  • Calories 386 calories

My Amazing Jerk Chicken Kebabs: A Summer Grilling Adventure

Summer is finally here! And what better way to celebrate the warm weather than with a delicious and easy-to-make Jerk Chicken Kebab recipe? This isn't just any kebab recipe; it's a taste of paradise, a vibrant explosion of flavors that will transport you to a tropical island with every bite. I first discovered this recipe at a friend's summer barbecue, and it's quickly become my go-to dish for any gathering. It’s so simple, yet it always wows.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don't need to be a culinary expert to create these flavorful skewers. The marinade is the star, a vibrant blend of spices that create a complex and intoxicating aroma. The sweet and savory notes of the mango and plantain beautifully complement the spicy kick from the jerk seasoning, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. My family just goes crazy for it and it's great for get-togethers because everyone can customize their own skewers. And yes, the kids love it too!

I love how versatile this recipe is. You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference. For those who aren't keen on extreme heat, simply reduce the amount of habanero pepper. The preparation itself is straightforward and doesn't require any special cooking skills. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover ingredients. It is wonderful to have some fresh mango or plantain on hand for a last-minute meal because everything comes together very quickly.

The grilling process is a key part of the fun. The smoky char from the grill adds another layer of complexity to the flavors, enhancing the already delicious marinade. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water, and it’s a perfect opportunity to spend time with loved ones while creating a truly memorable meal. The kids love helping with the assembly, and it's a great way to get them involved in the cooking process.

Beyond the ease of preparation and exceptional taste, this Jerk Chicken Kebab recipe is also wonderfully adaptable. Feeling creative? Experiment with different vegetables! Substitute zucchini, eggplant, or even pineapple for some unique flavor combinations. Want to add a protein boost? Include some shrimp or tofu along with the chicken. The possibilities are endless!

But it’s not just about the flexibility of the ingredients. It’s also about the atmosphere it creates. The sizzle of the chicken on the grill, the vibrant colors of the vegetables, the sweet aroma of the mango... it all combines to create a truly special culinary experience. And it's not just a meal; it's an experience. A celebration of summer, of friendship, and of simple pleasures. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, sparks conversations, and creates lasting memories. So gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and let’s make some magic!

This Jerk Chicken Kebab recipe isn't just a meal; it's a gateway to unforgettable moments. It's the perfect dish to share with loved ones, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a recipe that speaks of summer evenings, laughter, and the joy of simple pleasures. It’s a taste of paradise, right in your backyard. So, what are you waiting for? Get grilling!

Beyond the immediate satisfaction of enjoying this delicious meal, consider the broader implications. It's a chance to unplug from the daily grind and focus on the present moment. The act of preparing the food, the time spent grilling, and the shared meal itself all contribute to a more mindful and enjoyable life. It's a reminder that sometimes, the simplest things are the most rewarding.

And let's not forget the lasting impact. This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients; it’s a legacy. It's a dish that can be passed down through generations, creating a shared culinary heritage within your family. Each time you make it, you'll be carrying on a tradition, connecting with those who came before you and those who will come after. So, fire up that grill, and let the culinary journey begin!

The experience of creating and sharing this meal is just as important as the taste itself. It’s about connecting with your loved ones, creating new memories, and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. It’s about the laughter, the conversations, and the sense of community that surrounds the shared meal. It’s about slowing down, appreciating the moment, and savoring every delicious bite. This isn't just a recipe; it's a life experience.

Step-by-step

    • Marinade: Place all marinade ingredients in a blender and puree.
    • Kebabs: In a large bowl, pour marinade over chicken, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
    • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
    • Discard marinade. Clean and oil the grill grate.
    • Preheat the grill.
    • Thread chicken pieces onto 2-3 skewers. Thread bell pepper and onion pieces onto 2 skewers, mango cubes onto 2 skewers, and plantain segments onto 2 skewers.
    • Grill plantain kebabs for about 15 minutes, turning frequently, until browned.
    • Grill chicken, pepper-onion, and mango kebabs for about 10 minutes, turning frequently, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables/fruit have grill marks.
    • Remove from skewers and serve immediately.